SALT SMARTS

What other single ingredient can turn a bland dish into a delicious one, help preserve foods, tenderize proteins and transform texture? Here, the experts in the GH Innovation Kitchen walk you through the power in every pinch.

- by TRISH CLASEN MARSANICO

HOW-TO

Season Food to Perfection

This move will upgrade every meal you make.

I'll let you in on a little secret I learned in culinary school: Instead, layer flavor throughout the cooking process by seasoning, tasting and adjusting as you go, from start to finish.

For example, when I make tomato sauce, I season the onions while they sauté, then again once the tomatoes are added. Right before serving, I'll give it one last taste to see if it needs a final pinch of salt.

Adding salt enhances flavors by suppressing bitterness and highlighting sweetness, sourness or umami. It can also help balance out a dish — if something tastes too sweet or acidic, a pinch can bring everything back into harmony. Just remember that a little goes a long way!

Your Secret Ingredient